How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Record in Ohio?

According to the state Department of Public Safety, the law for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Ohio is placed under a larger group of offenses, known as Operating a Vehicle under the Influence (OVI).

Permanent Record

The Ohio OVI Guide reports that a conviction for an OVI offense is recorded on the criminal record of a driver, and the OVI offense stays on the driver's criminal record forever. A driver's abstract, used by companies such as insurance carriers doing background checks, generally stretches back three years.

Blood Alcohol Content

When an individual is suspected of an OVI offense, the Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of the suspect is tested. The legal limit in Ohio is a BAC of 0.08 percent. The Unofficial DMV Guide reports that a BAC level can be tested directly by drawing blood from the suspect, or indirectly by testing the suspects breath or urine.

Punishment

According to the Unofficial DMV Guide, an OVI conviction can result in the suspension of a driver's license, fines of between $250 and $10,000, along with jail time of between three and 60 days. Courts in Ohio consider previous OVI offenses in the sentencing process stretching back over the previous six years.

References

• The Unofficial DMV Guide: DUI & DWI
• Ohio's OVI Guide: Ohio DUI Offense
• Ohio Department of Public Safety: OVI Law Changes - FAQ's